Bumper assemblies and vehicles comprising same

ABSTRACT

A bumper assembly having a transverse bumper body and at least one wing extension that is configured for pivotal movement relative to a side end of the transverse bumper body. Each wing extension has inner and outer surfaces and is moveable from a rest position to an impact position in response to an impact force acting within a horizontal plane. In the rest position, the outer surface of each wing extension is parallel or substantially parallel to the transverse axis, and in the impact position, the outer surface of the wing extension is positioned at an acute angle relative to the transverse axis. Each wing extension is configured to return to its rest position in response to removal of the impact force.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/399,906, filed Jan. 6, 2017, which claims priority to and the benefitof the filing date of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/275,947, filedon Jan. 7, 2016, which applications are incorporated by reference hereinin their entirety.

FIELD

The disclosed invention relates to bumper assemblies for use onvehicles, including, for example and without limitation, deliveryvehicles and recreational vehicles.

BACKGROUND

Conventional vehicle bumpers often must be replaced or repairedfollowing low-speed impacts. The use of such bumpers, which must berepaired or replaced in response to collisions, can greatly increase thecost of vehicle ownership, particularly for vehicles that frequentlyexperience low-speed impacts. Moreover, when vehicle bumpers are notreplaced following a collision, the vehicle bumpers are often not aseffective as they were in their original condition. In particular,vehicle bumpers are often damaged at the ends or corner portions of thebumpers.

Thus, there is a need for vehicle bumpers that can maintainfunctionality following low-speed impacts. There is a further need forvehicle bumpers that can withstand low-speed impacts and be re-usedwithout maintenance or repair.

SUMMARY

Described herein, in various aspects, is a bumper assembly having atransverse bumper body and a first wing extension. The transverse bumperbody can have opposed first and second side ends spaced apart relativeto a transverse axis. The first wing extension can be pivotally coupledto the bumper assembly and be configured for pivotal movement relativeto the first side end of the transverse bumper body. The first wingextension can have inner and outer surfaces and be moveable from a restposition to an impact position in response to an impact force actingwithin a horizontal plane. In the rest position, the outer surface ofthe first wing extension can be parallel or substantially parallel tothe transverse axis. In the impact position, the outer surface of thefirst wing extension can be positioned at an acute angle relative to thetransverse axis. The first wing extension can be configured to return tothe rest position in response to removal of the impact force.

Also described is a bumper assembly having a transverse bumper body andfirst and second wing extensions. The transverse bumper body can haveopposed first and second side ends spaced apart relative to a transverseaxis. The first and second wing extensions can be pivotally coupled tothe bumper assembly and be configured for pivotal movement relative tothe first and second side ends of the transverse bumper body. The firstand second wing extensions can have inner and outer surfaces and bemoveable from a rest position to an impact position in response to animpact force acting within a horizontal plane. In the rest position, theouter surfaces of the first and second wing extensions can be parallelor substantially parallel to the transverse axis. In the impactposition, the outer surfaces of the first and second wing extensions canbe positioned at an acute angle relative to the transverse axis. Thefirst and second wing extensions can be configured to return to the restposition in response to removal of the impact force.

Further described herein is a vehicle having a vehicle body and at leastone bumper assembly coupled to the vehicle body. Each bumper assemblycan comprise a transverse bumper body having opposed first and secondside ends spaced apart relative to a transverse axis. The first andsecond wing extensions can be pivotally coupled to the bumper assemblyand be configured for pivotal movement relative to the first and secondside ends of the transverse bumper body. The first and second wingextensions can have inner and outer surfaces and be moveable from a restposition to an impact position in response to an impact force actingwithin a horizontal plane. In the rest position, the outer surfaces ofthe first and second wing extensions can be parallel or substantiallyparallel to the transverse axis. In the impact position, the outersurfaces of the first and second wing extensions can be positioned at anacute angle relative to the transverse axis. The first and second wingextensions can be configured to return to the rest position in responseto removal of the impact force.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a partially transparent perspective view of an exemplarybumper assembly as disclosed herein. FIG. 1B is a partially transparentrear perspective view of the bumper assembly of FIG. 1A. FIG. 1C is anexploded front perspective view of the bumper assembly of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a top view of an exemplary bumper assembly as disclosedherein, showing a first wing extension of the bumper assembly in therest position. FIG. 2B is a top view of the bumper assembly of FIG. 2A,showing the first wing extension of the bumper assembly in the impactposition.

FIGS. 3A-3B are front perspective views of a vehicle having an exemplarybumper assembly as disclosed herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present invention now will be described more fully hereinafter withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not allembodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, this invention may beembodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limitedto the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments areprovided so that this disclosure will satisfy applicable legalrequirements. Like numbers refer to like elements throughout. It is tobe understood that this invention is not limited to the particularmethodology and protocols described, as such may vary. It is also to beunderstood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose ofdescribing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit thescope of the present invention.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forthherein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which theinvention pertains having the benefit of the teachings presented in theforegoing description and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is tobe understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specificembodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments areintended to be included within the scope of the appended claims.Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a genericand descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

As used herein the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include pluralreferents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example,use of the term “a mounting bracket” can refer to one or more of suchmounting brackets.

All technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning ascommonly understood to one of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention belongs unless clearly indicated otherwise.

Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value,and/or to “about” another particular value. When such a range isexpressed, another aspect includes from the one particular value and/orto the other particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed asapproximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understoodthat the particular value forms another aspect. It will be furtherunderstood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant bothin relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the otherendpoint.

As used herein, the terms “optional” or “optionally” mean that thesubsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, andthat the description includes instances where said event or circumstanceoccurs and instances where it does not.

The word “or” as used herein means any one member of a particular listand also includes any combination of members of that list.

As used herein, the term “elastic” refers to a material that is capableof at least partially recovering its size and shape followingdeformation.

The following description supplies specific details in order to providea thorough understanding. Nevertheless, the skilled artisan wouldunderstand that the apparatus and associated methods of using theapparatus can be implemented and used without employing these specificdetails. Indeed, the apparatus and associated methods can be placed intopractice by modifying the illustrated apparatus and associated methodsand can be used in conjunction with any other apparatus and techniquesconventionally used in the industry.

Disclosed herein, in various aspects and with reference to FIGS. 1A-3B,is a bumper assembly 10. In exemplary aspects, the bumper assembly 10can be provided as a component of a vehicle 100, such as, for exampleand without limitation, a delivery vehicle (e.g, a walk-in van ortruck), a passenger vehicle, a recreational vehicle, a car, a truck, agolf cart, and the like. In these aspects, the bumper assembly 10 can becoupled to a vehicle body 105 such that the bumper assembly extendsoutwardly from the vehicle body and shields the vehicle body from impactforces (Fi) applied toward the vehicle body. In some aspects, the bumperassembly 10 can be provided as a front bumper. In other aspects, thebumper assembly 10 can be provided as a rear bumper. In still otheraspects, a first bumper assembly can be provided as a front bumper and asecond bumper assembly can be provided as a rear bumper. Optionally, instill other aspects, it is contemplated that the bumper assembly 10 canbe provided as a side bumper, either alone or in combination with afront or rear bumper assembly as disclosed herein.

The Bumper Assembly

In exemplary aspects, and with reference to FIGS. 1A-3A, the bumperassembly 10 can comprise a transverse bumper body 20 and at least afirst wing extension 30 a. In one aspect, the transverse bumper body 20can have opposed first and second side ends 22, 24 spaced apart relativeto a transverse axis 12. In another aspect, the first wing extension 30a can be pivotally coupled to the bumper assembly 10 at a pivot point 35a such that the first wing extension is configured for pivotal movementrelative to the first side end 22 of the transverse bumper body 20.Optionally, in this aspect, the first wing extension 30 a can bepivotally coupled (e.g., pivotally secured or mounted) to the transversebumper body 20 at pivot point 35 a. It is further contemplated that thefirst wing extension 30 a can be pivotally coupled to the transversebumper body 20 using a fulcrum or pin as are known in the art. In afurther aspect, and with reference to FIGS. 2A-2B, the first wingextension 30 a can have inner and outer surfaces 32 a, 34 a and bemoveable from a rest position to an impact position in response to animpact force (Fi) acting within a horizontal plane 200. In the restposition, as shown in FIG. 2A, the outer surface 34 a of the first wingextension 30 a can be parallel or substantially parallel to thetransverse axis 12. In the impact position, as shown in FIG. 2B, theouter surface 34 a of the first wing extension 30 a can be positioned atan acute angle 36 relative to the transverse axis 12. More generally, inthe impact position, the angular orientation of the outer surface 34 aof the first wing extension 30 a relative to the transverse axis 12 isdifferent than the angular orientation of the outer surface of the firstwing extension in the rest position. Typically, in the impact position,the first wing extension is more displaced (inwardly) than in the restposition. In exemplary aspects, acute angle 36 can range from about 1degree to about 89 degrees, from about 2 degrees to about 60 degrees,from about 3 degrees to about 45 degrees, or from about 5 degrees toabout 20 degrees. However, it is contemplated that any change in angularorientation relative to the rest position can occur, provided it doesnot exceed the maximum angular deflection permitted by the stop elementsfurther disclosed herein. In use, the first wing extension 30 a can beconfigured to return to the rest position in response to removal of theimpact force (Fi).

In exemplary aspects, the bumper assembly 10 can further comprise afirst elastic plate 40 a coupled to the transverse bumper body 20 andextending laterally outwardly (relative to the transverse axis 12) fromthe first side end 22 of the transverse bumper body. In these aspects,the first elastic plate 40 a can be positioned to contact the innersurface 32 a of the first wing extension 30 a as the first wingextension moves from the rest position to the impact position, therebydeforming the first elastic plate 40 a. Optionally, it is contemplatedthat the inner surface 32 a of the first wing extension 30 a can defineor comprise a pad or projecting portion 33 a that is configured tocontact the first elastic plate 40 a and maintain a space between thefirst elastic plate and the outermost portions of the first wingextension. In use, following deformation, the first elastic plate 40 acan be configured to apply a spring-back force to the first wingextension 30 a to return the first wing extension to the rest position.In additional aspects, the first elastic plate 40 a can have a proximalportion 42 a that is rigidly coupled (e.g., rigidly secured or mounted)to the transverse bumper body 20 and a distal portion 44 a that isdeformable relative to the transverse axis to produce a spring-back(i.e., diving board) effect. Optionally, in these aspects, the proximalportion 42 a of the first elastic plate 40 a can be rigidly secured tothe transverse bumper body 20 using at least one fastener 70 (e.g., atleast one bolt or screw) that extends perpendicularly or substantiallyperpendicularly relative to the transverse axis 12 and passes throughthe transverse bumper body 20 and into the proximal portion 42 a of thefirst elastic plate 40 a. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated thatthe characteristics and dimensions of the elastic plates disclosedherein can be selectively tailored to provide for desired levels ofdeformation and impact absorption.

In exemplary aspects, the bumper assembly 10 can further comprise afirst stop element 50 configured to restrict deformation of the firstelastic plate 40 a beyond a first stop position. In these aspects, thefirst stop position can correspond to the maximum allowable pivotalmovement of the first wing extension 30 a. Thus, in use, the stopelements 50 disclosed herein can be positioned to prevent furthermovement of the wing extensions and prevent damage to the vehicle body.

In another aspect, the bumper assembly 10 can further comprise at leastone mounting bracket 60 secured to the transverse bumper body 20.Optionally, in exemplary aspects and as shown in FIGS. 1A-3B, the firstwing extension 30 a can be pivotally coupled to the at least onemounting bracket 60 using a fulcrum or pin 82 a as are known in the art.In these aspects, it is contemplated that the at least one mountingbracket 60 can be rigidly secured or mounted to the transverse bumperbody 20, while the first wing extension 30 a can be pivotally secured ormounted to the at least one mounting bracket 60. As shown in FIGS.1A-3B, it is further contemplated that portions of the first wingextension 30 a can overlap with or cover portions of an outer surface ofthe transverse bumper body 20.

In further aspects, it is contemplated that the at least one mountingbracket 60 can define the first stop element 50. Optionally, in furtherexemplary aspects, the at least one mounting bracket 60 can have a firstend portion 64 a that defines a first slot 62 a configured to receive aportion of the first elastic plate 40 a. In these aspects, as one ofskill in the art will appreciate, the first slot 62 a can cooperate withan inner surface of the transverse bumper body 20 to circumferentiallyenclose or substantially circumferentially enclose a portion of thefirst elastic plate 40 a. It is further contemplated that inner or endsurfaces of the first slot 62 a can function as a stop element 50 thatcontacts portions of the elastic plate 40 a to prevent furtherdeformation of the plate and, consequently, restrict pivotal movement ofthe first wing extension 30 a.

In some aspects, the at least one mounting bracket 60 can comprise asingle mounting bracket as shown in FIG. 1A-1C. Alternatively, in otheraspects, the at least one mounting bracket 60 can comprise at least twomounting brackets, such as, for example, two mounting brackets that arespaced apart relative to the transverse axis 12 and configured forpositioning at two opposed ends of a front side of a vehicle body. Theat least one mounting bracket can be configured for secure connection toa vehicle using conventional fasteners and attachment mechanisms.

Optionally, in exemplary aspects, the bumper assembly 10 can furthercomprise a second wing extension 30 b pivotally coupled to the bumperassembly 10 at a pivot point 35 b such that the second wing extension isconfigured for pivotal movement relative to the second side end 24 ofthe transverse bumper body 20. Optionally, in these aspects, the secondwing extension 30 b can be pivotally coupled (e.g., pivotally secured ormounted) to the transverse bumper body 20 at pivot point 35 b. It isfurther contemplated that the second wing extension 30 b can bepivotally coupled to the transverse bumper body 20 using a fulcrum orpin as are known in the art. In these aspects, the second wing extension30 b can have inner and outer surfaces 32 b, 34 b and be moveable from arest position to an impact position in response to an impact force (Fi)acting within the horizontal plane 200. In the same manner as the firstwing extension 30 a, in the rest position, the outer surface 34 b of thesecond wing extension 30 b can be parallel or substantially parallel tothe transverse axis 12, and in the impact position, the outer surface 34b of the second wing extension can be positioned at an acute anglerelative to the transverse axis 12. More generally, in the impactposition, the angular orientation of the outer surface 34 b of thesecond wing extension 30 b relative to the transverse axis 12 isdifferent than the angular orientation of the outer surface of the firstwing extension in the rest position. Typically, in the impact position,the second wing extension is more displaced (inwardly) than in the restposition. In exemplary aspects, the acute angle of the outer surface ofthe second wing extension (in the impact position) can range from about1 degree to about 89 degrees, from about 2 degrees to about 60 degrees,from about 3 degrees to about 45 degrees, or from about 5 degrees toabout 20 degrees. However, it is contemplated that any change in angularorientation relative to the rest position can occur, provided it doesnot exceed the maximum angular deflection permitted by the stop elementsfurther disclosed herein. In use, the second wing extension 30 b can beconfigured to return to the rest position in response to removal of theimpact force (Fi).

In exemplary aspects, when first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 bare provided, the bumper assembly can comprise first and second elasticplates 40 a, 40 b coupled to the transverse bumper body 20 and extendinglaterally outwardly (relative to the transverse axis 12) from therespective first and second side ends 22, 24 of the transverse bumperbody. In these aspects, the first and second elastic plates 40 a, 40 bcan be positioned to contact the inner surfaces 32 a, 32 b of the firstand second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b as the first and second wingextensions move from the rest position to the impact position, therebydeforming the first and second elastic plates 40 a, 40 b. Optionally, itis contemplated that the inner surfaces 32 a, 32 b of the first andsecond wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can define or comprise pads orprojecting portions 33 a, 33 b that are configured to contact the firstand second elastic plates 40 a, 40 b and maintain a space between theelastic plates and the outermost portions of the first and second wingextensions. In use, following deformation, the first and second elasticplates 40 a, 40 b can be configured to apply respective spring-backforces to the first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b to return thefirst and second wing extensions to the rest position. Optionally, inadditional aspects, the first and second elastic plates 40 a, 40 b canhave proximal portions 42 a, 42 b that are rigidly coupled (e.g.,rigidly secured or mounted) to the transverse bumper body 20 and distalportions 44 a, 44 b that are deformable relative to the transverse axis12 to produce a spring-back (i.e., diving board) effect. Optionally, inthese aspects, the proximal portions 42 a, 42 b of the first and secondelastic plates 40 a, 40 b can be rigidly secured to the transversebumper body 20 using fasteners 70 (e.g., bolts or screws) that extendperpendicularly or substantially perpendicularly relative to thetransverse axis 12 and respectively pass through the transverse bumperbody 20 and into the proximal portions 42 a, 42 b of the first andsecond elastic plates 40 a, 40 b. Optionally, it is contemplated thatthe first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can define openings thatpositioned in alignment with the fasteners 70 when the wing extensionsare in the rest position, thereby permitting access to the fasteners.

In further aspects, when the bumper assembly 10 comprises first andsecond wing extensions 30 a, 30 b, the bumper assembly can furthercomprise first and second stop elements 50 configured to restrictdeformation of the first and second elastic plates 40 a, 40 b beyondrespective first and second stop positions. In these aspects, the firststop position can correspond to the maximum allowable pivotal movementof the first wing extension 30 a, and the second stop position cancorrespond to the maximum allowable pivotal movement of the second wingextension 30 b. In exemplary aspects, the at least one mounting bracket60 can define the first and second stop elements 50. For example, inthese aspects, the at least one mounting bracket 60 can have a first endportion 64 a that defines a first slot 62 a configured to receive aportion of the first elastic plate 40 a and an opposed second endportion that defines a second slot 62 b configured to receive a portionof the second elastic plate 40 b. It is contemplated that inner or endsurfaces of each slot 62 a, 62 b can function as stop elements 50 thatcontact portions of the elastic plates 40 a, 40 b to prevent furtherdeformation of the plates and, consequently, restrict pivotal movementof the wing extensions.

Optionally, in exemplary aspects and as shown in FIGS. 1A-3B, the firstand second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can be pivotally coupled (e.g.,pivotally secured or mounted) to the at least one mounting bracket 60using fulcrums or pins 82 a,82 b as are known in the art. In theseaspects, it is contemplated that the at least one mounting bracket 60can be rigidly secured or mounted to the transverse bumper body 20,while the first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can be pivotallysecured or mounted to the at least one mounting bracket 60. As shown inFIGS. 1A-3B, it is further contemplated that portions of the first wingextensions 30 a, 30 b can overlap with or cover portions of an outersurface of the transverse bumper body 20.

In exemplary aspects, the first wing extension 30 a can have a sidesurface 38 a extending between the inner and outer surfaces 32 a, 34 aof the first wing extension. In these aspects, within the horizontalplane 200, the side surface 38 a of the first wing extension 30 a can bepositioned at an acute angle relative to the outer surface 34 a of thefirst wing extension (angled inwardly toward the vehicle body).Similarly, when the bumper assembly 10 comprises first and second wingextensions 30 a, 30 b, the first and second wing extensions can haverespective side surfaces 38 a, 38 b extending between the inner andouter surfaces 32 a, 32 b, 34 a, 34 b of the respective first and secondwing extensions. Within the horizontal plane 200, the side surfaces 38a, 38 b of the first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can bepositioned at acute angles relative to the outer surfaces 34 a, 34 b ofthe respective first and second wing extensions (angled inwardly towardthe vehicle body). Optionally, it is contemplated that the side surfaces38 a, 38 b of the first and second wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can have acurved profile. In exemplary aspects, it is contemplated that the shapesand the dimensions of the side surfaces 38 a, 38 b can be selected to becomplementary to the shape of adjacent portions of a vehicle body (e.g.,a hood of the vehicle body) and to minimize the overall horizontaldimension of the bumper assembly.

In exemplary aspects, the bumper assembly 10 can comprise at least onevertical fastener 80 (preferably, a plurality of vertical fasteners 80)that secures the transverse bumper body 20 to the at least one mountingbracket 60. In these aspects, the vertical fasteners (e.g., bolts) canbe oriented parallel or substantially parallel to a vertical axis 14that is perpendicular to the transverse axis 12. As further disclosedherein, it is contemplated that each wing extension 30 a, 30 b can bepivotally coupled to the bumper body 20 and/or the at least one mountingbracket 60 using a vertical fastener, such as a fulcrum or pin 82 a, 82b. For example, it is contemplated that a top surface of each wingextension 30 a, 30 b can define openings that receive a correspondingfulcrum or pin 82 a, 82 b. Optionally, at least one vertical fastener 80can be positioned proximate each end 22, 24 of the transverse bumperbody 20. In exemplary optional aspects, it is contemplated that a row ofvertical fasteners can be positioned proximate at least one end 22, 24of the transverse bumper body 20, with the fasteners of the row beingspaced apart relative to the transverse axis 12. Optionally, in theseaspects, the fulcrums or pins 82 a, 82 b can optionally be positioned inalignment with vertical fasteners 80 (relative to transverse axis 12).As shown in FIGS. 2A-2B, it is further contemplated that a top surfaceof each wing extension 30 a, 30 b can, in addition to defining anopening that receives a corresponding fulcrum or pin 82 a, 82 b, alsodefine a plurality of slots or cut-outs 37 a, 37 b that arecomplementary in shape to the exposed portions of vertical fasteners 80positioned in alignment with a fulcrum or pin, thereby allowing the wingextensions 30 a, 30 b to return to rest positions in which the outersurfaces 34 a, 34 b of the wing extensions are flush or substantiallyflush with the outer surface of the bumper body 20. It is furthercontemplated that such exemplary configurations, which include wingextensions having increased transverse lengths, can help provideadditional support to the bumper assembly 10 during a front or rearimpact.

It is contemplated that the components of the disclosed bumper assembly10 can comprise any conventional bumper materials, including, forexample and without limitation, steel, aluminum, and composite materialsas are known in the art. Optionally, in exemplary aspects, it iscontemplated that the elastic plates 40 a, 40 b disclosed herein cancomprise spring steel, fiberglass, one or more composite materials, flatplates heat-tempered to have spring steel characteristics, flat platesheat-tempered to have spring characteristics, or combinations thereof.

Thus, in operation, it is contemplated that the disclosed elastic bumperassemblies can provide a lower cost of ownership by reducing theoccurrence of whole-bumper replacements as a result of low-speedimpacts. It is further contemplated that the disclosed bumper assembliescan absorb low-speed oblique impacts and return to their resting statewithout the need for maintenance. It is further contemplated that thedisclosed bumper assemblies can use hard stops following impact forces(Fi) to provide protection to the hood and other vehicle bodystructures.

In exemplary aspects, in response to a reverse hooked wing impact, it iscontemplated that the wing extensions 30 a, 30 b can be damaged.However, rather than requiring replacement of the entire bumper assembly10, it is contemplated that only the wing extensions 30 a, 30 b need bereplaced; that is, the remaining components of the assembly will remainfully functional.

Exemplary Aspects

In various exemplary aspects, disclosed herein is a bumper assemblycomprising: a transverse bumper body having opposed first and secondside ends spaced apart relative to a transverse axis; and a first wingextension pivotally coupled to the bumper assembly and being configuredfor pivotal movement relative to the first side end of the transversebumper body, wherein the first wing extension has inner and outersurfaces and is moveable from a rest position to an impact position inresponse to an impact force acting within a horizontal plane, wherein,in the rest position, the outer surface of the first wing extension isparallel or substantially parallel to the transverse axis, wherein, inthe impact position, the outer surface of the first wing extension ispositioned at an acute angle relative to the transverse axis within thehorizontal plane, and wherein the first wing extension is configured toreturn to the rest position in response to removal of the impact force.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises afirst elastic plate coupled to the transverse bumper body and extendinglaterally from the first side end of the transverse bumper body, whereinthe first elastic plate is positioned to contact the inner surface ofthe first wing extension as the first wing extension moves from the restposition to the impact position, and wherein the first elastic plate isconfigured to apply a spring-back force to the first wing extension toreturn the first wing extension to the rest position.

In another exemplary aspect, the first elastic plate has a proximalportion that is rigidly secured to the transverse bumper body and adistal portion that is deformable relative to the transverse axis.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises afirst stop element configured to restrict deformation of the firstelastic plate beyond a first stop position.

In another exemplary aspect, the first stop position corresponds to amaximum pivotal movement of the first wing extension.

In another exemplary aspect, the first wing extension is pivotallycoupled to the transverse bumper body.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises atleast one mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body,wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines the first stopelement.

In another exemplary aspect, the first wing extension is pivotallycoupled to the at least one mounting bracket.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket defines afirst slot configured to receive a portion of the first elastic plate.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket comprisesa single mounting bracket.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises asecond wing extension pivotally coupled to the bumper assembly andconfigured for pivotal movement relative to the second side end of thetransverse bumper body, wherein the second wing extension has inner andouter surfaces and is moveable from a rest position to an impactposition in response to an impact force acting within a horizontalplane, wherein, in the rest position, the outer surface of the secondwing extension is parallel or substantially parallel to the transverseaxis, wherein, in the impact position, the outer surface of the secondwing extension is positioned at an acute angle relative to thetransverse axis within the horizontal plane, and wherein the second wingextension is configured to return to the rest position in response toremoval of the impact force.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises firstand second elastic plates coupled to the transverse bumper body andextending laterally from the respective first and second side ends ofthe transverse bumper body, wherein the first and second elastic platesare positioned to contact the inner surfaces of the first and secondwing extensions as the first and second wing extensions move from therest position to the impact position, and wherein the first and secondelastic plates are configured to apply respective spring-back forces tothe first and second wing extensions to return the first and second wingextensions to the rest position.

In another exemplary aspect, the first and second elastic plates haveproximal portions that are rigidly secured to the transverse bumper bodyand distal portions that are deformable relative to the transverse axis.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises firstand second stop elements configured to restrict deformation of the firstand second elastic plate beyond respective first and second stoppositions.

In another exemplary aspect, the first stop position corresponds to amaximum pivotal movement of the first wing extension, and the secondstop position corresponds to a maximum pivotal movement of the secondwing extension.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises atleast one mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body,wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines the first and secondstop elements.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket defines afirst slot configured to receive a portion of the first elastic plateand a second slot configured to receive a portion of the second elasticplate.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket comprisesa single mounting bracket.

In another exemplary aspect, the first wing extension has a side surfaceextending between the inner and outer surfaces, wherein, within thehorizontal plane, the side surface is positioned at an acute anglerelative to the outer surface.

In another exemplary aspect, the first and second wing extensions haverespective side surfaces extending between the inner and outer surfacesof the respective first and second wing extensions, wherein, within thehorizontal plane, the side surfaces of the first and second wingextensions are positioned at acute angles relative to the outer surfacesof the respective first and second wing extensions.

In another exemplary aspect, the second wing extension is pivotallycoupled to the transverse bumper body.

In another exemplary aspect, the second wing extension is pivotallycoupled to the at least one mounting bracket.

In various exemplary aspects, disclosed herein is a bumper assemblycomprising: a transverse bumper body having opposed first and secondside ends spaced apart relative to a transverse axis; and first andsecond wing extensions pivotally coupled to the bumper assembly andconfigured for pivotal movement relative to the first and second sideends of the transverse bumper body, wherein the first and second wingextensions have inner and outer surfaces and are moveable from a restposition to an impact position in response to an impact force actingwithin a horizontal plane, wherein, in the rest position, the outersurfaces of the first and second wing extensions are parallel orsubstantially parallel to the transverse axis, wherein, in the impactposition, the outer surfaces of the first and second wing extensions arepositioned at an acute angle relative to the transverse axis within thehorizontal plane, and wherein the first and second wing extensions areconfigured to return to the rest position in response to removal of theimpact force.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises firstand second elastic plates coupled to the transverse bumper body andextending laterally from the respective first and second side ends ofthe transverse bumper body, wherein the first and second elastic platesare positioned to contact the inner surfaces of the first and secondwing extensions as the first and second wing extensions move from therest position to the impact position, and wherein the first and secondelastic plates are configured to apply respective spring-back forces tothe first and second wing extensions to return the first and second wingextensions to the rest position.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises firstand second stop elements configured to restrict deformation of the firstand second elastic plate beyond respective first and second stoppositions.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises atleast one mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body,wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines the first and secondstop elements.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket defines afirst slot configured to receive a portion of the first elastic plateand a second slot configured to receive a portion of the second elasticplate.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket comprisesa single mounting bracket.

In another exemplary aspect, the first and second wing extensions haverespective side surfaces extending between the inner and outer surfacesof the respective first and second wing extensions, wherein, within thehorizontal plane, the side surfaces of the first wing extension andsecond wing extensions are positioned at acute angles relative to theouter surfaces of the respective first and second wing extensions.

In another exemplary aspect, the bumper assembly further comprises firstand second elastic plates coupled to the transverse bumper body andextending laterally from the respective first and second side ends ofthe transverse bumper body, wherein the first and second elastic platesare positioned to contact the inner surfaces of the first and secondwing extensions as the first and second wing extensions move from therest position to the impact position, and wherein the first and secondelastic plates are configured to apply respective spring-back forces tothe first and second wing extensions to return the first and second wingextensions to the rest position.

In various exemplary aspects, disclosed herein is a vehicle comprising:a vehicle body; and at least one bumper assembly coupled to the vehiclebody, wherein each bumper assembly comprises: a transverse bumper bodyhaving opposed first and second side ends spaced apart relative to atransverse axis; and first and second wing extensions pivotally coupledto the bumper assembly and configured for pivotal movement relative tothe first and second side ends of the transverse bumper body, whereinthe first and second wing extensions have inner and outer surfaces andare moveable from a rest position to an impact position in response toan impact force acting within a horizontal plane, wherein, in the restposition, the outer surfaces of the first and second wing extensions areparallel or substantially parallel to the transverse axis, wherein, inthe impact position, the outer surfaces of the first and second wingextensions are positioned at an acute angle relative to the transverseaxis within the horizontal plane, and wherein the first and second wingextensions are configured to return to the rest position in response toremoval of the impact force.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one bumper assembly comprisesa front bumper assembly and a rear bumper assembly.

In another exemplary aspect, each bumper assembly further comprisesfirst and second stop elements configured to restrict deformation of thefirst and second elastic plate beyond respective first and second stoppositions.

In another exemplary aspect, each bumper assembly further comprises atleast one mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body,wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines the first and secondstop elements.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket of eachbumper assembly defines a first slot configured to receive a portion ofthe first elastic plate and a second slot configured to receive aportion of the second elastic plate.

In another exemplary aspect, the at least one mounting bracket comprisesa single mounting bracket.

In another exemplary aspect, the first and second wing extensions haverespective side surfaces extending between the inner and outer surfacesof the respective first and second wing extensions, wherein, within thehorizontal plane, the side surfaces of the first wing extension andsecond wing extensions are positioned at acute angles relative to theouter surfaces of the respective first and second wing extensions.

In various exemplary aspects, disclosed herein is bumper assemblycomprising: a transverse bumper body having opposed first and secondside ends spaced apart relative to a transverse axis; first and secondwing extensions configured for pivotal movement relative to the firstand second side ends of the transverse bumper body, wherein the firstand second wing extensions have inner and outer surfaces and aremoveable from a rest position to an impact position in response to animpact force acting within a horizontal plane; first and second elasticplates coupled to the transverse bumper body and extending laterallyfrom the respective first and second side ends of the transverse bumperbody, wherein the first and second elastic plates are positioned tocontact the inner surfaces of the first and second wing extensions asthe first and second wing extensions move from the rest position to theimpact position; and a mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumperbody, wherein the mounting bracket defines first and second stopelements that are configured to restrict deformation of the first andsecond elastic plates beyond respective first and second stop positions,wherein the first and second wing extensions are pivotally coupled tothe mounting bracket, wherein, in the rest position, the outer surfacesof the first and second wing extensions are substantially parallel tothe transverse axis, wherein, in the impact position, the outer surfacesof the first and second wing extensions are positioned at an acute anglerelative to the transverse axis within the horizontal plane, andwherein, following removal of the impact force, the first and secondelastic plates are configured to apply respective spring-back forces tothe first and second wing extensions to return the first and second wingextensions to the rest position.

All publications and patent applications mentioned in the specificationare indicative of the level of those skilled in the art to which thisinvention pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereinincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application was specifically and individuallyindicated to be incorporated by reference.

Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail byway of illustration and example for purposes of clarity ofunderstanding, certain changes and modifications may be practiced withinthe scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A bumper assembly comprising: a transverse bumperbody having opposed first and second side ends spaced apart relative toa transverse axis; and a first wing extension pivotally coupled tobumper assembly and configured for pivotal movement relative to thefirst side end of the transverse bumper body, wherein the first wingextension has inner and outer surfaces and is moveable from a restposition to an impact position in response to an impact force actingwithin a horizontal plane, wherein, in the rest position, the outersurface of the first wing extension is substantially parallel to thetransverse axis, wherein, in the impact position, the outer surface ofthe first wing extension is positioned at an acute angle relative to thetransverse axis within the horizontal plane, and wherein the first wingextension is configured to return to the rest position in response toremoval of the impact force.
 2. The bumper assembly of claim 1, furthercomprising a first elastic plate coupled to the transverse bumper bodyand extending laterally from the first side end of the transverse bumperbody, wherein the first elastic plate is positioned to contact the innersurface of the first wing extension as the first wing extension movesfrom the rest position to the impact position, and wherein the firstelastic plate is configured to apply a spring-back force to the firstwing extension to return the first wing extension to the rest position.3. The bumper assembly of claim 2, wherein the first elastic plate has aproximal portion that is rigidly secured to the transverse bumper bodyand a distal portion that is deformable relative to the transverse axis.4. The bumper assembly of claim 2, further comprising a first stopelement configured to restrict deformation of the first elastic platebeyond a first stop position.
 5. The bumper assembly of claim 1, whereinthe first wing extension is pivotally coupled to the transverse bumperbody.
 6. The bumper assembly of claim 4, further comprising at least onemounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body, wherein the atleast one mounting bracket defines the first stop element.
 7. The bumperassembly of claim 6, wherein the first wing extension is pivotallycoupled to the at least one mounting bracket.
 8. The bumper assembly ofclaim 6, wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines a first slotconfigured to receive a portion of the first elastic plate.
 9. Thebumper assembly of claim 6, wherein the at least one mounting bracketcomprises a single mounting bracket.
 10. The bumper assembly of claim 1,further comprising: a second wing extension pivotally coupled to thebumper assembly and configured for pivotal movement relative to thesecond side end of the transverse bumper body, wherein the second wingextension has inner and outer surfaces and is moveable from a restposition to an impact position in response to an impact force actingwithin the horizontal plane, wherein, in the rest position, the outersurface of the second wing extension is substantially parallel to thetransverse axis, wherein, in the impact position, the outer surface ofthe second wing extension is positioned at an acute angle relative tothe transverse axis within the horizontal plane, and wherein the secondwing extension is configured to return to the rest position in responseto removal of the impact force.
 11. The bumper assembly of claim 10,further comprising first and second elastic plates coupled to thetransverse bumper body and extending laterally from the respective firstand second side ends of the transverse bumper body, wherein the firstand second elastic plates are positioned to contact the inner surfacesof the first and second wing extensions as the first and second wingextensions move from the rest position to the impact position, andwherein the first and second elastic plates are configured to applyrespective spring-back forces to the first and second wing extensions toreturn the first and second wing extensions to the rest position. 12.The bumper assembly of claim 11, wherein the first and second elasticplates have proximal portions that are rigidly secured to the transversebumper body and distal portions that are deformable relative to thetransverse axis.
 13. The bumper assembly of claim 11, further comprisingfirst and second stop elements configured to restrict deformation of thefirst and second elastic plates beyond respective first and second stoppositions.
 14. The bumper assembly of claim 13, further comprising atleast one mounting bracket secured to the transverse bumper body,wherein the at least one mounting bracket defines the first and secondstop elements.
 15. The bumper assembly of claim 14, wherein the at leastone mounting bracket defines a first slot configured to receive aportion of the first elastic plate and a second slot configured toreceive a portion of the second elastic plate.
 16. The bumper assemblyof claim 14, wherein the at least one mounting bracket comprises asingle mounting bracket.
 17. The bumper assembly of claim 10, whereinthe second wing extension is pivotally coupled to the transverse bumperbody.
 18. The bumper assembly of claim 14, wherein the second wingextension is pivotally coupled to the at least one mounting bracket. 19.A bumper assembly comprising: a transverse bumper body having opposedfirst and second side ends spaced apart relative to a transverse axis;first and second wing extensions configured for pivotal movementrelative to the first and second side ends of the transverse bumperbody, wherein the first and second wing extensions have inner and outersurfaces and are moveable from a rest position to an impact position inresponse to an impact force acting within a horizontal plane; first andsecond elastic plates coupled to the transverse bumper body andextending laterally from the respective first and second side ends ofthe transverse bumper body, wherein the first and second elastic platesare positioned to contact the inner surfaces of the first and secondwing extensions as the first and second wing extensions move from therest position to the impact position; and a mounting bracket secured tothe transverse bumper body, wherein the mounting bracket defines firstand second stop elements that are configured to restrict deformation ofthe first and second elastic plates beyond respective first and secondstop positions, wherein the first and second wing extensions arepivotally coupled to the mounting bracket, wherein, in the restposition, the outer surfaces of the first and second wing extensions aresubstantially parallel to the transverse axis, wherein, in the impactposition, the outer surfaces of the first and second wing extensions arepositioned at an acute angle relative to the transverse axis within thehorizontal plane, and wherein, following removal of the impact force,the first and second elastic plates are configured to apply respectivespring-back forces to the first and second wing extensions to return thefirst and second wing extensions to the rest position.
 20. A vehiclecomprising: a vehicle body; and at least one bumper assembly coupled tothe vehicle body, wherein each bumper assembly comprises: a transversebumper body having opposed first and second side ends spaced apartrelative to a transverse axis; and first and second wing extensionspivotally coupled to the bumper assembly and configured for pivotalmovement relative to the first and second side ends of the transversebumper body, wherein the first and second wing extensions have inner andouter surfaces and are moveable from a rest position to an impactposition in response to an impact force acting within a horizontalplane, wherein, in the rest position, the outer surfaces of the firstand second wing extensions are substantially parallel to the transverseaxis, wherein, in the impact position, the outer surfaces of the firstand second wing extensions are positioned at an acute angle relative tothe transverse axis within the horizontal plane, and wherein the firstand second wing extensions are configured to return to the rest positionin response to removal of the impact force.